In the heart of Singapore's bustling shopping district, a sprawling 15-acre sanctuary offers an escape back to the island's greener past. The Shangri-La Singapore, the flagship property of the global hotel group, provides a tranquil retreat just a ten-minute stroll from the famed Orchard Road.
A Modern Suite with Garden Views
Checking into a recently renovated one-bedroom suite in the Tower Wing reveals a space designed for both luxury and comfort. Floor-to-ceiling bay windows frame a stunning vista of the hotel's lush gardens, home to over 110 varieties of flora, with the city's modern skyline beyond. The suite boasts a king-size bedroom, a well-appointed kitchenette, and a lavish bathroom, with thoughtful touches like multi-country power sockets for Australian travellers.
The hotel's commitment to its garden theme is immediately evident, but it reaches a spectacular crescendo at The Orchid. This 7-metre-tall open-air wooden greenhouse, built for the hotel's 45th anniversary, houses more than 300 stunning tropical orchid blooms, creating a living, breathing centrepiece for the grounds.
Culinary Journeys and Signature Relaxation
Dining at the Shangri-La Singapore is an adventure in itself. Origin Grill offers a sophisticated, railway-inspired setting where flame-cooking takes centre stage. Dishes like chargrilled Murray cod and a show-stopping goreng pisang parfait dessert showcase modern techniques with local flair. For authentic Cantonese cuisine, the opulent Shang Palace impresses with signature dishes such as smoked bean curd rolls in black truffle sauce.
Wellness is seamlessly integrated into the stay at Chi, The Spa. A Signature Asian Blend massage skilfully combines techniques from across the region, proving effective even for stubborn, long-term muscle tension, leaving guests profoundly relaxed.
Immersive Local Experiences
Beyond relaxation, the hotel facilitates deep cultural connection. It offers two curated heritage walking tours. One explores the colourful Peranakan shophouses of nearby Emerald Hill, while the other, led by knowledgeable guides like third-generation Singaporean Shanti, delves into the contrasts of the Civic District. These tours often conclude back at the elegant Lobby Lounge with a heritage tasting menu featuring local classics like beef rendang and Hainanese chicken rice.
Despite its serene setting, the hotel is perfectly connected. A complimentary shuttle bus runs to Orchard MRT station, providing easy access to Singapore's major attractions, while taxis and ride-hail services are readily available.
For travellers seeking a luxury base that combines urban convenience with resort-style tranquillity, the Shangri-La Singapore stands out. It successfully preserves a sense of the island's botanical heritage while delivering five-star service, exquisite dining, and unique local insights, all within a stone's throw of one of the world's great shopping streets.
